Urchin – Sand Dollar

Sand Dollar Urchin Care Tips:

Minimum Tank Size:  30 Gallons

Max Size: Up to 10cm (4″)

Diet: Omnivore (Sand scavenger)

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Lifespan: Up to 10 years

Scientific Name:  Clypeaster Reticulatus

Coral Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

The sand dollar urchin is one of the rarer species not often seen in the hobby. It’s scientific name is Clypeaster Reticulatus but it is referred to by its common name the sand dollar. This urchin comes from the Echinarachniidae family. Sand dollars will reach a maximum size of 4” in diameter, and they can live up to 10 years. Sand dollars are considered semi-aggressive because of their ability to sting, since they sit under the sand a sand dwelling fish can unknowingly sit on them. If too many spines make contact with the fish, it can cause temporary paralysis or sometimes even death. Sand dollars are both coral and invertebrate safe. These urchins require a substrate of 1”+ so they can cover themselves.